Myth or fact: Eating peeled apples can help improve mood, relieve pain during periods

The many dos and don’ts about food and fitness on social media can leave one feeling overwhelmed. But instead of feeling buried under excess information, take a deep breath and find out if those claims have any truth in them. So when we chanced upon a post claiming that eating a peeled apple can help relieve period pain and also improve mood, we decided to verify it for you. The post on Indian Veg-Diet read, “Just eating 1 apple without peel daily helps to get rid of period cramps and pain as it is high in iron and magnesium. It also improves happy mood during periods. (The best time to have an apple in the morning).”

But first, why do mood fluctuations happen during periods?

Mood fluctuations during menstruation are influenced by a complex interplay of hormonal changes, neurotransmitter activity, and individual physiological and psychological factors. “While diet can indeed play a role in overall well-being, it’s not the only factor that can influence well-being during menstruation,” said Dr Sangeeta Tiwari, clinical nutritionist, Artemis Hospitals.

So, can having peeled apples every day help elevate mood?

Apples have a variety of nutrients that could contribute to mood regulation. “For instance, they are rich in vitamin C, which plays a key role in the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which is typically referred to as the ‘feel-good’ hormone,” noted Dr Tiwari.

Furthermore, apples have dietary fibre, which can help in regulating blood sugar levels, potentially preventing mood swings associated with fluctuating blood glucose levels.

However, it’s important to understand that individual responses to dietary changes, including the consumption of apples, can vary significantly depending on a variety of factors. “While some people may experience a mood boost from eating apples, others may not notice any significant effects. Furthermore, the absence of the peel may diminish some of the potential benefits, because the peel contains additional nutrients and antioxidants,” said Dr Tiwari.

Do you often peel your apples? (Source: Freepik)

So while apples can be a nutritious addition to a balanced diet and may offer some mood-boosting benefits, their impact during menstruation may differ from person to person. “Incorporating a variety of healthy lifestyle habits is necessary to support overall emotional well-being throughout the menstrual cycle,” said Dr Tiwari.

Should you also make lifestyle changes?

In addition to consuming apples, adopt a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Dr Tiwari stressed, “Regular physical activity, stress management techniques like mindfulness or meditation, and adequate sleep are also crucial components of maintaining emotional well-being.”

If someone experiences severe mood symptoms or premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that significantly impacts their daily functioning and quality of life, then they should consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice and potential treatment options. “In some cases, dietary changes alone may not be sufficient to address underlying mood disorders or hormonal imbalances,” said Dr Tiwari. 

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